You've made the decision. I'll handle the paperwork.
I prepare and fill out the complete divorce packet with the information you give me, and I tell you the real timeline California law requires. From $450. I don't represent you and I don't give legal advice.
Five steps and six months and a day
Nobody finishes a divorce in California in less than six months and a day, however fast the papers are filed. Anyone telling you otherwise is your first warning sign.
We gather your information
Full names, date and place of marriage, date of separation, minor children, shared assets and debts. That tells me which packet your case needs.
I prepare and fill out the forms
The petition and everything that goes with it, filled from what you tell me. You review and sign.
They're filed with your county court
The filing fee is paid directly to the county; if you can't afford it, there's a fee waiver request I can also prepare.
The other party is served
The law requires the other person to receive the documents formally. The clock starts on that date.
Six months and a day pass and it closes
The divorce becomes final at minimum six months and one day after service. No court finishes it sooner.
What I need from you
- Full names of both parties
- Date and place of marriage
- Date of separation
- Names and ages of minor children, if any
- List of shared assets and debts
- A current photo ID
What I don't do
- Advise you on whether to divorce or how to divide
- Negotiate with the other party or their attorney
- Appear in court for you
- Give opinions on custody, support or property
- Promise an outcome or a timeline shorter than the law's
If there's violence, a serious dispute over the children, or complicated assets, your case needs an attorney. I'll tell you plainly and point you there.
What people ask me about divorce
What does a divorce cost with you?
My preparation fee starts at $450 and is quoted per case. The court filing fee is separate and goes directly to the county.
Is it really six months and a day?
Yes. California law requires a minimum of six months and one day from the date the other party is served. The paperwork can be ready in days, but the divorce isn't final before then.
What if my spouse doesn't agree?
In California the other person doesn't have to agree for you to file. What changes is the path: if there's a real dispute over children or property, you'll need an attorney and I'll tell you so.
Can you come to court with me?
No. I'm not an attorney and I can't represent you or speak for you before a judge.
What it costs
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | From $450 |
| Response to Divorce Petition | From $450 |
| Custody & Visitation Agreements | From $450 |
| Marital Settlement Agreements | From $250 |
| Contested Divorce | Custom Quote |
Divorce and custody are two separate services. Each one is prepared and quoted on its own, even when we work on both at the same time.
Court fees, government fees, recording fees, service of process, shipping, courier and other external costs are not included.
Tell me where you are in the process
With five pieces of information I'll tell you which packet applies, what it costs and how long it will really take.